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Map showing campground location near Markleeville, California
Camper submitted image from Dispersed USFSView 20 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Markleeville, California

Dispersed USFS

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Along Blue Lakes Road between Hope Valley and the Blue Lakes, this dispersed camping area sits at 8,300 feet elevation within Toiyabe National Forest. Several pull-offs along the road give campers options for spacing. The road in is steep and winding, with grades up to 8%, and rain can cause washouts and deep puddles, so moderate to high clearance rigs handle it best. Water fill-up is available at developed campgrounds roughly five miles in either direction, including Upper Blue Lake Dam to the southwest. Expect more company over holiday weekends; early August visits have found sites uncrowded. Campers planning a trip to the campgrounds around Markleeville area should note that cell service is listed as available, though the elevation and terrain mean weather can shift quickly.

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Map & DirectionsDispersed USFS is located in California near Markleeville

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

38.6375261 N
119.91688136 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 7/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 7/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Dispersed USFS

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

34%
33%
33%
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4.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the spacious, scenic dispersed sites with wildflower meadows and mountain views. Access requires navigating 7 miles of steep, winding roads but accommodates larger RVs with care.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Sep. 2, 2025

Worth the climbs to get here!!

This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

Sitedispersed camping no amenities
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Jacqueline G., September 2, 2025
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Jacqueline G., September 2, 2025
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Jacqueline G., September 2, 2025
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2021

Camping blue lake road

Great place if you’re self contained. Great view, space between sites.

Sitethere’s no sites with numbers out here.
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Don D., June 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Don D., June 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Don D., June 29, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2019

Beautiful Free Camping

Several areas along Blue Lakes Rd offer dispersed camping. We had a wildflower-filled meadow to ourselves in early August with plenty of near-by trails for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horses, mountain biking or hiking.

  • Review photo of Dispersed USFS by Ken J., August 8, 2019
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Blue Lakes dispersed camping area?

Blue Lakes dispersed camping area is true wilderness camping with no formal amenities or facilities. Campers must be self-contained and practice Leave No Trace principles. There are no toilets, potable water, trash services, or hookups available. The sites offer natural features like meadows and scenic views, with good spacing between camping spots for privacy. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal equipment.

Where is Blue Lakes Road dispersed camping located and how do I access it?

Blue Lakes Road dispersed camping is located between Hope Valley and Blue Lakes in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Access is via Blue Lakes Road, which is a steep and winding route that extends about 7 miles from the main road. The road can be navigated with larger vehicles—some campers have successfully brought in 30-foot buses with towed vehicles, though caution is advised due to the road conditions. The dispersed sites are positioned along various points of Blue Lakes Road, offering campers scenic mountain views and privacy.

Is Centerville Flat Campground near Blue Lakes and what does it offer?

While specific information about Centerville Flat Campground's proximity to Blue Lakes isn't detailed in available information, the Sierra Nevada region contains numerous dispersed camping options. Centerville Flat would likely offer a similar wilderness camping experience to Blue Lakes Road dispersed camping, potentially with primitive sites and minimal facilities. For current information about Centerville Flat's specific amenities, exact location relative to Blue Lakes, and accessibility, contact the local Forest Service office that manages the area.

What do reviews say about Blue Lake dispersed campground?

Blue Lake dispersed campground offers beautiful natural surroundings with wildflower-filled meadows during summer months and excellent scenic views throughout the area. The campground provides good spacing between sites, ensuring privacy for campers. The location serves as an excellent base for outdoor activities, with numerous nearby trails suitable for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. While popular during holiday weekends like Labor Day, the area is typically quieter at other times. Most visitors appreciate the true wilderness experience and natural beauty of the setting.

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